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The door was then kicked open after the woman went to the door and told them to leave.

Mr Sabiston said the pair, who were appearing via video link from Durham Prison, went into the flat and into living room where they shouted “We’ll show you who’s boss in the area” and threatened to “cut him up.”

After leaving again, they returned with a knife attached to a pipe and a baton and were shouting that they were going to kill the woman’s boyfriend.

Mr Sabiston added: “They were trying to get him outside so they could give him a hiding.”

After Marriott and O’Neil left again, the terrified couple left their home to go and sleep elsewhere. While they were away, Marriott returned and burgled the flat, stealing a purse, a mobile phone and a TV. He also damaged the door of a neighbour.